Le Havre: My Gateway to Paris
We caught the 7:45 train and were sipping café crème under the Eiffel Tower by 10:30. The Seine sparkled, the chestnut trees were in bloom, and Paris smelled exactly like fresh baguette and romance. We walked from the Louvre (Mona Lisa smaller than expected, Venus de Milo perfect) across the Tuileries to the Orangerie where Monet's water lilies wrapped around us like a hug.
We had lunch at a tiny Montmartre bistro – steak-frites and a carafe of red while an accordion player outside made us cry into our fries. Quick metro to Sacré-Cœur for the view, then back to Gare St-Lazare with croissants for the train. The pros: you actually get Paris – real Paris – in a day. The cons: it's a long day with trains, but the French rail system is flawless and the memories are priceless.
Getting Around Le Havre/Paris
Direct trains from Le Havre station (5-minute taxi from ship) to Paris St-Lazare every hour.
Positively Worded Word of Warning
The Paris day is full but perfectly paced – an early train and pre-booked museum tickets turn rush into pure joy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Le Havre/Paris worth it?
A: The only realistic way to see Paris by cruise ship.
Q: Best thing?
A: Eiffel Tower + Louvre express + Montmartre.
Q: How long in Paris?
A: 7–8 hours on ground is ideal.
Q: Walk from port?
A: No – train is essential.